Wrangell–St. Elias · January · Alaska

Wrangell–St. Elias National Park in January

January is the off-season at Wrangell–St. Elias National Park. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average -9°F and lows -17°F, with about 4.16 inches of rain.

January is rated poor at Wrangell–St. Elias. Consider Jun–Aug instead.

Full park guideAll parks in January
RatingPoor
CrowdsQuiet
Avg high / low-9°F / -17°F
Rain4.16 in

What to expect

Honest take: January is not the month for Wrangell–St. Elias. Very cold and remote. Few services operate.

Local tip

The McCarthy Road is 60 miles of gravel. Check whether your rental car contract allows it, or take the shuttle.

Good to know

  • Best months overall: Jun–Aug.
  • Closest airport: Anchorage (ANC), about 7 hours by road to McCarthy.
  • Before you go: Many rental car companies prohibit driving the McCarthy Road. Check current conditions on nps.gov.

2-day Wrangell–St. Elias itinerary · Packing list

Questions

Is January a good time to visit Wrangell–St. Elias National Park?

January is the off-season at Wrangell–St. Elias National Park. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average -9°F and lows -17°F, with about 4.16 inches of rain.

What is the weather like in Wrangell–St. Elias National Park in January?

Highs average -9°F and lows -17°F, with about 4.16 inches of rain. Conditions are poor this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.

How crowded is Wrangell–St. Elias National Park in January?

January is one of the quietest months at Wrangell–St. Elias National Park.